Lake County, Indiana – A man who chose to transport a dog, in frigid weather, unsecured in an open utility trailer, may face animal cruelty charges. Video of the shocking incident was captured by a good Samaritan who contacted 911 to make a report.

The Indiana State Police issued a news release about the situation, recounting the details:

The vehicle was traveling eastbound on I-80/94 from the Illinois state line. A good Samaritan noticed the vehicle and called 911 to report his concern about the dog’s condition. It should be noted that the outside temperature at the time was approximately 26 degrees with windchills below that temperature.

A detective opened an investigation and located the dog at a residence in Gary, Indiana. According to the release, the dog was apparently abandoned:

The dog appeared to have been abandoned near a residence where the owner of the suspect vehicle had previously resided. With the assistance of an ISP K9 handler who was off duty but in the area, they were able to gain the dog’s trust and secure the dog. A neighbor identified the dog, and the search for the owner continued through the afternoon. Later in the evening, the owner was identified and interviewed by the detective.

Explaining that the individual may face charges:

Charges have been submitted to the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office against a 37-year-old Lake County resident for the offense of Cruelty to an Animal – Class A Misdemeanor. If charges are approved, that individual will be identified as he is not currently in custody and not formally charged.

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